There are many choices when it comes to choosing a college. Spend time with your child and explore together. Let your child know you are interested in helping plan his future. Here's a list and general description of the kinds of colleges that are available:

• Universities
  Compared to colleges, offer more majors and often include research facilities.
• Liberal Arts Colleges
  Smaller than universities and offer a broad range of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, typically with more personal attention. Most are private, so can be expensive.
• Community or Junior Colleges
  Offer degrees in specialized training after two years of full-time study for immediate job entry. The student can also continue studying and get a four-year degree.
• Technical Schools and Colleges
  Offer one- or two-year programs to earn a certificate or associate's degree in careers such as Art, Cooking, Teaching, Computer Electronics, etc. Your child can also pursue a four-year degree in any of these majors if he wishes.

Parent Action Items:

• What does your child find most exciting or interesting at school? What other activities does she engage in outside of school? Music? Dancing? Is there a hobby your child has expressed interest in? Knowing your child's interests will guide your selection of a college.
• Encourage your child to speak to an adult who works in the type of job that interests her so she will learn more about that field and what it will take to pursue her dream.

Visit www.aie.org for information and resources on possible career paths and the degrees commonly required. In Spanish, as well as English.